Amaryllis Care Guide

By Alisha Bredbenner

Amaryllises are traditional blooms to give and grow around Christmastime.

Amaryllis bulbs in paper or in a decorative planter make great gifts for holiday hosts. Over a few weeks, the bulbs will sprout green stalks and beautiful blooms.

Rather than tossing an amaryllis after the holidays, keep it! Once the flowers are spent, cut off the flower stalks without damaging the foliage. Keep the bulb planted in its container, and continue to give it regular water and bright light. After the last frost, move the amaryllis outdoors.

The bulbs can stay in containers or be transplanted into the ground in certain areas. Plant the amaryllis in a well-drained area, with the top of the bulb poking out above the soil, and water well.